Worrying online trend sees teenagers making 'painful but cheap' DIY BRACES using elastic bands - which experts warn will ruin gums and make teeth fall out

Dental experts have issued severe warnings about a growing trend that sees young people using cheap elastics to straighten their teeth – a procedure which could cause permanent damage to their gums and even result in their teeth falling out. 
Around 60 per cent of Americans have dental cover as part of their insurance plan, but many are not covered for any procedures involving braces, leaving millions of people high and dry in the event of a serious dental issue. 
And this is especially a concern for young people, whose insecurities about their looks are seeing some resort to a dangerous short cut in order to achieve ‘perfect’ straight teeth.